This is an update to, and continuation of, the out-of-print 9th edition of my guidebook WEEKEND ADVENTURES IN SAN FRANCISCO & NORTHERN CALIFORNIA. It consists of short chunks of travel throughout Northern California that you can easily digest. More great weekend adventures await at my BERKELEY AND BEYOND website at www.berkeleyandbeyond.com.

Monday, February 1, 2016

Comstock Saloon 155 Columbus Ave./Kearny St., North Beach, (415) 617-0071. Located on a corner, this saloon-bar has been open since 1907. Walking in the doors is like stepping back in time. Hanging from the high ceiling, old-time Asian paddle fans cool the air, and comfy oversize booths line the wall. Live music emanates from the hidden mezzanine, generally beginning around 7:30 p.m. and lasting for hours. GQ ranked this spot as one of the top cocktail bars in America, and my to-try drink list includes the Blood and Sand (Scotch, sweet vermouth, orange, and cherry liqueur) and the Cherry Bounce (Bourbon, cherry brandy, lemon, Angostura, Champagne). The menu is short but includes plenty of appetizers plus a burger, roasted chicken, and mushroom pot pie.

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about

*Is a freelance travel writer and the author of 17 books, including
MILES OF SMILES: 101 GREAT CAR GAMES & ACTIVITIES and WEEKEND
ADVENTURES IN SAN FRANCISCO & NORTHERN CALIFORNIA. *Is the founding
publisher of Carousel Press and the editor of DREAM SLEEPS: CASTLE &
PALACE HOTELS OF EUROPE. *Has written for FamilyFun, Sunset, and
numerous other magazines, as well as for the travel sections of many
newspapers. *Has done stints as both a movie and a restaurant critic.
*Has appeared on the Today Show.*Is a member of the Society of
American Travel Writers.